Middle East Conflict Influences Local Water Fluoridation Decision
Davie County has decided to halt the addition of fluoride to its water supply, citing complications linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The decision was formalized when the county board of commissioners passed a resolution to end water fluoridation starting next month.
County Manager Brian Barnett explained through an email that the county faced uncertainties about the consistent availability of the necessary chemicals for fluoridation. This concern was supported by a letter from Thomas Coyne, the president of Coyne Chemical, which supplies the county with these chemicals. Coyne highlighted that an Israeli producer of hydrofluorosilicic acid, a key ingredient, had exited the U.S. market due to disruptions caused by the war.
The Israeli company’s workforce had been significantly reduced as many employees were called for active military duty, leaving Coyne Chemical unable to secure an alternative supplier. Additionally, Barnett mentioned employee safety concerns related to handling these chemicals and emphasized the importance of personal choice regarding fluoride intake.
The issue of chemical supply is not isolated to Davie County. Earlier this year, two major water systems in Maryland also reduced fluoride levels temporarily due to similar supply challenges stemming from the situation in Israel.
In contrast, utility officials from Forsyth and Davidson counties have not encountered supply issues but have noted a substantial rise in chemical prices.
